Greater New Orleans

All-Star Game Reflections

Over the high school All-America Bowl game weekend LSU was expected to land at least three verbal commitments.

Craig Loston, William Campbell, and Andre Debose were all expected to give the Tigers a boost in the recruiting rankings, but unfortunately for LSU there was a change in plans.

Craig Loston stuck to his cousin's (Russell Shepard) prediction as he committed to the Tigers on Friday afternoon at the Burger King High School All-America Skills Challenge at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. However, Saturday and five-star defensive tackle William Campbell were a different story.

(Craig Loston - Photo courtesy of Rivals.com)

After removing the Wolverines from his top three schools a week earlier, Campbell decided Michigan was indeed the best place for him as he selected the Wolverines as his college choice. The Cass-Technical High School product's decision surprised not only the media and the LSU fans watching the game, but also a few of the current Tigers' commitments as well.

"I figured he would be coming to LSU," Chris Davenport stated regarding Campbell. "In the end though I guess he felt he made the best decision for himself. I was happy for him. As long as he does the right things on and off of the field he has the chance to make something out of himself. And so I can't be mad at him for that."

"That's just how it works sometimes," Shepard claimed. "I think Campbell was really considering LSU, but Michigan was where his love was at."

Sunday served the Tigers in the same fashion as Saturday as LSU suffered yet another letdown as Andre Debose placed a Florida Gators hat on his head symbolizing his commitment. For months it was rumored Debose was more than likely heading to LSU, but like Campbell he had other plans.
Shepard went on record claiming the Tigers would land one of the three Seminole High School recruits with it more than likely being Debose. And even after Debose's announcement at the Under Armour game Shepard still claimed LSU to be in the mix for the five-star receiver's signature.
"I wasn't disappointed with Andre's decision," Shepard claimed. "Right after he made his announcement he came over to me and talked to me about it. I know he still plans on talking to coach Miles and I believe we are still in it for him. It is not over yet."

Head Coach Urban Meyer and the Gators landed a couple of other commitments over the weekend with one coming from linebacker Jon Bostic. Shepard believes Bostic's commitment may end up helping the Tigers in the end.

"I think by Bostic committing to Florida that may help us (LSU) with Jarvis Jones because I know he was considering them as well as us," Shepard stated. "I also think we have a good shot at getting Darren Myles because I think he wants to play with Craig (Loston)."

The Tigers currently possess 21 verbal pledges and will more than likely land another four-five. Between now and National Signing Day (Feb. 4) coach Les Miles and his staff will be hosting five more official visitors.